Grilled Pineapple

Grilled pineapple is a delicious, juicy treat that combines natural sweetness with a smoky, caramelized flavor from the grill. Perfect as a dessert or a side dish, it’s easy to prepare and will impress at any summer barbecue. The combination of butter, brown sugar, honey, and cinnamon creates a glaze that makes every bite melt in your mouth. This recipe is quick, simple, and packed with flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 pineapples, peeled and cored
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup honey
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ⅛ teaspoon salt

Instructions

• Slice one pineapple into 8 rings.
• Cut the other pineapple into spears by halving lengthwise, then quartering, and cutting in half again to make 8 spears.
• Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly coat the grate with vegetable oil.
• In a medium bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, honey, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
• Brush the glaze over all pineapple slices.
• Grill each side for 2-3 minutes, brushing with more glaze before flipping.
• Rotate the pineapple rings 45 degrees to create diamond grill marks.
• Remove from grill and serve warm, either alone or with vanilla ice cream.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serve warm for best flavor and texture.
• Pair with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or yogurt for a dessert twist.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat briefly on the grill or in the oven to restore warmth and flavor.

Variations

1. Spicy Grilled Pineapple – Add ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper to the glaze for a sweet and spicy kick.
2. Rum-Glazed Pineapple – Add 2 tablespoons of dark rum to the glaze for a tropical flavor.
3. Coconut Pineapple – Sprinkle toasted coconut over the pineapple after grilling.
4. Maple Cinnamon Pineapple – Replace honey with maple syrup in the glaze.
5. Vanilla Glazed Pineapple – Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to the glaze.
6. Brown Sugar Lime Pineapple – Add lime juice and zest to the glaze for a tangy twist.
7. Ginger Pineapple – Mix 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger into the glaze.
8. Honey-Balsamic Pineapple – Substitute 2 tablespoons of honey with balsamic glaze.
9. Chili-Lime Pineapple – Add chili powder and lime juice to the glaze.
10. Cinnamon Sugar Pineapple Spears – Roll grilled spears in cinnamon sugar after grilling.
11. Caramel Pineapple – Drizzle store-bought or homemade caramel over warm pineapple.
12. Pineapple with Mint – Garnish grilled pineapple with fresh mint leaves.
13. Chocolate Drizzled Pineapple – Drizzle melted dark chocolate over cooled grilled pineapple.
14. Pineapple Salsa – Dice grilled pineapple and mix with red onion, cilantro, and lime for a salsa topping.
15. Grilled Pineapple Skewers – Thread pineapple pieces onto skewers with other fruits for a colorful presentation.

FAQs

1. Can I grill pineapple without butter?
   Yes, you can grill it plain or with a light brush of oil, though the glaze adds sweetness and caramelization.
2. What type of pineapple is best for grilling?
   Ripe but firm pineapples are best; they hold their shape and caramelize well.
3. How do I prevent pineapple from sticking to the grill?
   Coat the grill with vegetable oil and brush the pineapple with glaze before placing it on the grill.
4. Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
   Fresh is best for grilling, but canned pineapple rings can work in a pinch.
5. How long should I grill pineapple?
   Grill for 2-3 minutes per side until caramelized and grill marks appear.
6. Can I prepare grilled pineapple ahead of time?
   You can pre-glaze and store pineapple in the fridge, then grill just before serving.
7. Is grilled pineapple healthy?
   Yes, it’s naturally sweet, low in fat, and full of vitamins. Using minimal added sugar keeps it healthier.
8. Can I make this recipe in an oven?
   Yes, broil pineapple slices for 5-7 minutes per side for similar caramelization.
9. Can I use brown sugar alternatives?
   Maple sugar, coconut sugar, or regular granulated sugar can be used.
10. How do I serve grilled pineapple as a dessert?
    Serve warm with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or yogurt for a sweet treat.

Grilled pineapple is a simple, flavorful, and versatile dish that brings a touch of tropical sweetness to any meal. Its natural juices caramelize beautifully on the grill, enhanced by a buttery, brown sugar, and honey glaze, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Whether served as a refreshing dessert with ice cream, a sweet side for your barbecue, or even as part of a fruit platter, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, grilled pineapple is a must-try for summer gatherings, family meals, or any time you want a deliciously sweet treat.

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